Development of the population of the European Fallow Deer, Dama dama dama (Linnaeus, 1758), in Turkey (Mammalia: Cervidae)

Abstract

In order to conserve the last autochthonous population of the European Fallow Deer, Dana dama dama (Linnaeus, 1758), the Turkish Government began a breeding programme at Duzlercami near Antalya in 1966. The programme began with 7 animals and the numbers continuously increased until the mid-1980s, when they reached over 500 animals. However, the population then collapsed until the year 2000 and did not recover. Today it comprises less than 130 individuals. The reasons for the population collapse are not fully understood but are thought to be a combination of several factors related to increasing human pressure such as urbanisation, recreational activities, and poaching. The population is much below the carrying capacity of the area. Attempts to re-introduce Fallow Deer into other areas of Turkey have not been successful but should be further considered as an option to minimise the risk of extinction, as at present the entire gene pool of the Turkish autochthonous population is concentrated at Duzlercami.